About Oxford

Situated in the southeast of England, Oxford is the ‘city of dreaming spires’, a reference to the spectacular architecture of the university buildings. Oxford has a small population of just over 150,000 people, but don’t let its size fool you. The city is a lively and atmospheric place that welcomes approximately 7 million tourists annually. You can hardly blame people for flocking to Oxford in such large numbers—there’s so much to see and do!

Oxford is the perfect place to host a corporate party. Not only does the city offer a variety of exciting attractions for visitors, but there are also several excellent corporate party venues to choose from. In this short guide, we’ll help you plan a corporate party that guests won’t soon forget!

Corporate Party Options in Oxford

Planning a corporate party is a challenge. You’ve got plenty to consider: the party venue, food, drinks, decorations, entertainment, furniture and more. However, with some help from local vendors, you’ll plan and execute a corporate party that your guests will be talking about for several months afterwards!

• Catering
  Catering is one of the most crucial aspects of your corporate party, so you must get it right. But, of course, the caterer you hire will depend entirely on how you’d like the food to be served. Are you planning a sit-down three-course meal, or will guests help themselves to buffet food? Thankfully, Oxford is home to several highly rated, experienced catering companies that will create delectable food for your esteemed guests to enjoy.

• Entertainment
  A top-notch entertainer will turn a good corporate party into a great one. There are various options to choose from—bands, comedians and DJs add a fun and exciting atmosphere to any party.

• Waiting Staff
  Depending on the number of corporate party attendees, you may need to hire waiting staff to ensure that the venue remains clean and tidy for the duration of the event. The last thing you want is a messy venue!

Corporate Party Vendors in Oxford

• The Oxford Food Company
  The Oxford Food Company is one of the county’s leading caterers due to its emphasis on providing delicious cuisine while maintaining an excellent relationship with clients. The company prides itself on going the extra mile for clients. The friendly, experienced staff are always on hand to resolve any issues or concerns. All available menus are freshly prepared on the premises and can be tailored to any dietary requirement.

• Warble Entertainment Agency
  If you’re looking to hire entertainment for your corporate party, talk to the people at Warble Entertainment Agency. Choose from a wide selection of unique entertainment, such as fire dancers, singers, circus acts, artists, psychics, celebrity impersonators, magicians, living statues, showgirls, gramophone DJs, French mimes, comedians and many more. Hiring a unique form of entertainment will ensure that your corporate party is truly unforgettable!

• House Party Bartenders
  House Party Bartenders' Rent A Waiter service provides experienced, trustworthy waiters for various events across the UK, including corporate parties. You can hire waiters of all kinds, including tray waiters, cocktail waiters or food waiters, who will take orders, serve drinks, clean up throughout the event and ensure that the venue is spotless after the event finishes. Hire prices start from just £100, enabling you to hire experienced individuals at an affordable price.

Pros and Cons of Corporate Parties in Oxford

Advantages

• Walking
  Because Oxford is a relatively compact city compared to other cities in the UK, you can easily explore most points of interest on foot. Plus, walking gives you the freedom to stop and take lots of photos of all the wonderful things you see! If your corporate party guests prefer to walk to your party location, they won't find it difficult to navigate through the city!

• Tours
  If you’d like to learn more about stunning Oxford from someone with deep knowledge of the city, why not go on a tour? In Oxford, you’ll find open bus tours, walking tours and river cruises, where knowledgeable tour guides will tell you all about the city’s rich history and culture. If you or your party guests are not from around here, they will have a chance to experience something exciting while they're in the city.

• Architecture
  One of the many reasons Oxford attracts millions of tourists each year is the city’s incredible architecture. The city’s most iconic buildings are built in Gothic and Baroque styles, and the most fascinating buildings mix the two styles together to create truly magnificent structures that delight visitors from all over the world. If you or your guests have free time after the party, don't forget to take stunning photos with the surroundings!

Disadvantages

• Crowds
  Oxford is a popular tourist spot. As a result, the city becomes very crowded at peak times. If you have last-minute errands to run for the party, you will bump into huge crowds which might be frustrating. If you’re not a huge fan of crowds, try to avoid the city centre, particularly popular tourist spots, at peak times.

• Parking
  If you’re planning on driving in Oxford, prepare to wrestle with a difficult parking situation. Due to the city’s layout, there aren’t many parking spaces in the city centre. To avoid parking-related frustration, try to use public transport instead. The various park and ride car parks on the outskirts of the city are a great way to visit Oxford without having to fight for a parking space. It's better to let your guests know about this so that they can prepare beforehand and avoid being late to the party.

Famous Locations in Oxford

• Magdalen College
  Founded in the 15th century, Magdalen College is one of Oxford University’s older colleges. The historic college welcomes visitors throughout the year, who come to explore Magdalen’s spectacular courtyard, cloisters and idyllic deer park, located in the heart of beautiful Oxford. The building contains the iconic Gothic Bell Tower, where, on the 1st of May each year at 6 AM, the college choir sings a hymn to welcome spring. It is a beautiful tradition that makes the historic college truly unique.
  
  
• Sheldonian Theatre
  Built in 1664, the Sheldonian Theatre is an architectural marvel located in Oxford city centre. Inside, gaze in wonder at the Sheldonian’s incredible ceiling, which was painted during the reign of King Charles II. If you’re looking for unbeatable views of Oxford, the Sheldonian Theatre offers panoramic 360 views of the city from the octagonal cupola. The spectacular building is also available for hire and hosts various exciting events such as concerts, lectures and seminars.